OKLAHOMA CITY – Disaster assistance often covers more than insurance. That is why Oklahomans affected by recent severe storms, tornadoes and flooding are urged by the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management (OEM) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to apply for assistance even if they have insurance.

“We want everyone who is eligible for assistance to receive help as soon as possible,” said Federal Coordinating Officer Philip E. Parr. “By law, we cannot duplicate what insurance already covers. But we may be able to help with some disaster-related expenses, within our program limits.”

Disaster assistance that may be available includes grants to help pay for:

· Temporary housing;

· Repairing wells and septic tanks;

· Household items and clothing;

· School supplies and tools required for a job;

· Chain saws, generators, dehumidifiers and other equipment necessary to deal with disaster-caused damage to a home or business; and

· Low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) for homeowners and renters as well as business owners.